Ohio State Tops Penn State with Second Half Turnaround

What started out like an ugly loss to Wisconsin turned into one of the best comebacks by Ohio State in recent history after a half-time speech by head coach Jim Tressel. Those not familiar with Jim Tressel probably thought a half time chewing out by Ohio State’s head coach was coming when the Buckeyes fell behind at home 14-3 against the Nittany Lions on Saturday. But Jim Tressel isn’t that kind of coach, at least we didn’t think he was.

By Steve Patterson

Ohio State started by game off Saturday against Penn State with a decent drive a field goal by Devin Barclay but then was unable to stop their opponent and unable to move the ball themselves the rest of the first half. PSU quarterback Matthew McGloin passed the ball down the field with ease and put up 14 points before the first two quarters were complete. He finished the game with 159 yards and 2 touchdowns. But it was a last 2nd quarter fourth down attempt that turned the game around according to Ohio State’s head coach.

Others feel it was a half time speech by Jim Tressel that motivated the Buckeyes to come out and score 5 second half touchdowns while completely frustrating the Penn State offense. Behind an incredible half of running by Daniel Herron, OSU turned a 3-14 game into a 38-14 route. Herron finished the game with 190 yards rushing and a touchdown. The defensive of Ohio State was also just as impressive with two interceptions, one by Devon Torrence and one by Travis Howard, that were returned for touchdowns during the second half.

Ohio State (9-1) now travels to Iowa (7-3) for a matchup that at one time could have determined the Big Ten title for the season. Iowa has had some disappointments this year with a close loss against Wisconsin and one on the road last weekend against Northwestern. Ohio State needs to win out for a hope at a share of the Big Ten title and a chance to play in a BCS bowl.